The founder and former spiritual head of Rigpa, an international Buddhist community and network of Dharma centers had been receiving treatment for colon cancer.

He reportedly died at around 1 PM local time in Bangkok after suffering a “pulmonary embolism”.

“Although his passing was sudden, in a way, all the same, it was very peaceful and serene, and he was surrounded by close and loving students,” posted his official Facebook page, “Rinpoche is now resting in meditation. Several Lamas are supporting us with precise guidance at every step, and especially Sakya Gongma Trichen Rinpoche.”

He was the author of the best-selling book ‘The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying’ which has been printed in 30 languages in 56 countries, catapulting his fame as a modern Buddhist teacher.

He taught for 40 years across the globe before retiring in 2017 in the wake of sexual abuse allegation that rocked the Buddhist world.